Amid shutdown, only TSA spokesman still working tries to debunk airport dysfunction claims

As the partial government shutdown continues, federal workers might miss this week's paychecks. The federal agency tasked with guaranteeing U.S. airport security acknowledged an increase in the number of its employees calling off work. (Jan. 7)
AP

A Transportation Security Administration officer works at a checkpoint at Miami International Airport, Jan. 6, 2019, in Miami. The TSA acknowledged an increase in the number of its employees calling off work during the partial government shutdown. (Photo: Lynne Sladky, AP)

In an attempt to debunk reports of airport dysfunction due to airport screeners calling out sick during the government shutdown, the only Transportation Security Administration spokesperson still working went on a tweetstorm Wednesday morning.

TSA spokesman Michael Bilello went down the list of airports that employ TSA officials, offering statistics from Tuesday that show minimal, and supposedly typical, delays. The delays do not indicate an extraordinary increase in TSA officers, who are not being paid during the shutdown, calling out sick, Bilello has said.

"Transportation security officers are among the most mission-oriented and dedicated people in government," said Bilello. "We also acknowledge the stress that the partial government shutdown places on our officers and their families and are extremely grateful for their commitment."

Security standards will NOT and have NOT been compromised. Reports thereof are misleading, agenda-driven and only embolden the adversary. #NotOnOurWatch

At Newark Liberty International Airport, standard screening passengers waited a maximum of 25 minutes on Tuesday, Bilello said. TSA Pre Check passengers, those who are granted expedited screening due to a "low-risk," waited a maximum of eight minutes, he said.

But Bilello insists that the reports of rampant call-outs and resignations are "anecdotal" and does not reflect the reality of the TSA's situation.

"To be clear, there has not been a significant increase in call-out rates to date," Bilello said. "There has been no degradation in security effectiveness and average wait times are well within TSA standards."